One Year and Counting

I was truly honoured when I was asked last summer to write a blog for Blitz about my fitness journey. At that point it had been six months since I first walked through the doors, pledged change for myself, and asked for help in both accomplishing and sustaining it. Now, nearly a year to the day of my first workout at Blitz with Brett, I’m starting a more consistent blogging routine. To be thought of for the Influencer program is, again, an honour and I simply hope you enjoy reading about my journey as I keep forging ahead.

I’ve been told my story is an inspirational one and if I can inspire even one person to accomplish something they’ve been thinking about doing for themselves, it’s more than I can ask for. Because if I can have success on a fitness journey, anyone can.

My journey started with personal training, then soon included HIIT and running. I didn’t feel like I was good at any of it and everything was always sore. My initial goals had nothing to do with a dress size or running long distances or building visible muscle – I wanted to be healthy emotionally, mentally and physically. And I guess you could say I’ve been successful thus far, as I feel like a different and better person.

Fit-wise, I’ve lost nearly 60lbs and I-don’t-know-how-many inches (though I keep having to buy new pants). I’ve finished two half marathons, and a cold and challenging 25km winter trail run. I can run for two hours without stopping. I can squat shoulder press a 35lb weight.

But I also have off days and slow runs, occasionally sleep in and sometimes take too many breaks during workouts.

I’ve learned a lot over the past year – about myself, my limits and my goals, but mainly that Edmonton’s fitness community is amazing.

On top of Blitz, I join lululemon’s Run Collective most Wednesday nights, and I’m simply thankful the speedsters let me tag along as I’m always bringing up the rear. I also occasionally throw out a verbal and attend November Project Canada, which is an outstanding group of people who welcome anyone interested in free fitness and community building with open arms (and I mean that – the hugs at the hips are endless).

Blitz has my heart though, and is where I work out 4-6 times a week. It’s a place full of people who have changed my life (the list starts with Brett, continues with Chris and just keeps going).

I may have started 2014 with no specific goals in mind, but I have different plans for 2015. Stay tuned!

In the meantime, say hi and tell me about your fitness journey and goals! We can crush this year together.